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European Maritime Safety Agency grants €4M technical assistance program to bolster skills of Filipino seafarers
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Pinoy seamen to undergo comprehensive training
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EU-funded program to raise seafarers’ career prospects
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Program will primarily focus on implementing the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers Convention
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Aspects of the Maritime Labour Convention 2006, particularly related to the recruitment and placement of Filipino seafarers, will be addressed
The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the European Commission (EC) joined forces to enhance the education and training programs for professional ship crew.
The collaboration aims to incorporate international labor best practices, benefiting seafarers and positioning them to succeed in the industry, MARINA said.
Under the €4 million technical assistance program facilitated by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), Filipino seafarers will undergo comprehensive training to meet the “highest” industry standards.
MARINA Executive Director Samuel Batalla expressed optimism, stressing the “positive impact” this initiative will have on seafarers’ career prospects.
The program, financed by the EU-member states and supervised by the EC Directorate General for Mobility and Transport and DG for International Partnerships, will primarily focus on implementing the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers Convention (STCW).
Additionally, aspects of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, particularly related to the recruitment and placement of Filipino seafarers, will be addressed.
The collaboration represents a significant stride forward for Filipino seafarers, as their training will “align with international best practices,” making them more competitive in the global job market, according to MARINA.
The EC on March 31 announced that it had extended recognition of the country’s compliance with the STCW, effectively recognizing the Philippine maritime training and certification system.
This means European Union-based shipping lines may continue to hire Filipino seafarers.
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